Measles outbreak hits closer to home; Bartell’s stresses importance of vaccination

June 10, 2019

Measles outbreak hits closer to home; Bartell’s stresses importance of vaccination

In the year 2000, the Center for Disease Control declared measles eradicated in the United States. Recent resurgence of this highly contagious disease has sparked discussion around the effectiveness of certain strains of Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) vaccinations that patients may have received. With 81 confirmed cases throughout King, Pierce, Snohomish and Clark Counties, many are uncertain about their vaccinations’ effectiveness.

According to the CDC, if an individual has received the 2-dose series, they do not need to be revaccinated, even during an outbreak. If one has had measles, they do not need to be vaccinated as they are considered immune. There is a group of people whom may need to be revaccinated due to an ineffective vaccine being administered between 1963 and 1968. The CDC states that if an individual was vaccinated prior to 1968 with either an inactivated measles vaccine or measles vaccine of an unknown type, they should be revaccinated with at least one dose of the current measles vaccine. This recommendation is intended to protect those who may have received a measles vaccine in that timeframe that was proven to be ineffective.

“By getting vaccinated, you can protect not only yourself but your community. Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases that can be avoided and further contained by taking the proper measures. With the most recent reported cases of measles in the Seattle corridor, knowing your immunization status is important. Of the 81 cases, 79 individuals were under-vaccinated, not vaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status. The best form of protection is to ensure you’re properly vaccinated. If you’re unsure of your vaccinations, talk to your healthcare provider. Prevention is always the best medicine.” said Billy Chow, VP of Pharmacy for Bartell Drugs.

There is no specific anti-viral treatment for measles. Supportive care and symptom relief are the only avenues to assist those infected. With the new MMR vaccine exemption law in WA State taking effect on July 28, 2019, Bartell Drugs pharmacists are ready to help you look up your MMR series completion status and help those in the community get vaccinated today where necessary.

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About Bartell Drugs: Operating 68 locations in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties and serving the Northwest since 1890, locally owned Bartell Drugs is dedicated to providing extraordinary service that advances health, happiness and wellbeing. For more information on Bartell Drugs, visit  www.bartelldrugs.com.

Media Contact: Hannah Kubiak, Communications Manager, Bartell Drugs, 206-933-9416 or hannah.kubiak@bartelldrugs.com